UK Makes ETA Mandatory for Visitors From 85 Visa-Free Countries

LONDON: The United Kingdom has announced that Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) will become mandatory for travellers from 85 visa-exempt countries starting February 2026, as part of its transition towards a fully digital immigration system.

According to a statement issued by the UK Home Office, visitors from countries including the United States, Canada and France — who previously did not require a visa — will now have to obtain an ETA before travelling to the UK. Without this digital authorisation, airlines and other carriers will not allow passengers to board, and entry into the UK will be refused on arrival.

Officials said the move is aimed at strengthening border security while also supporting the government’s long-term plan for a contactless and fully digital border system. Under the new policy, every traveller must hold either an approved ETA or an eVisa before entering the UK.

The Home Office revealed that since the ETA system was launched in October 2023, over 13.3 million travellers have already successfully applied, benefiting from faster and smoother processing at UK borders. The ETA has also become essential for passengers passing through UK passport control, including those on connecting flights.

Minister for Migration and Citizenship Mike Tapp said the system will help prevent security threats and improve immigration oversight. He added that digitising the process would also provide a more seamless travel experience for millions of visitors entering the UK each year.

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During the initial rollout phase, strict enforcement was relaxed to allow travellers time to adjust. Similar approaches have been used by countries like the United States and Canada while introducing their own travel authorisation programmes.

Travellers can apply for an ETA using the official UK ETA mobile application. The fee is £16, and while most applications receive instant results, authorities recommend allowing up to three working days in case additional processing is required.

British and Irish citizens, including dual nationals, are exempt from the ETA requirement. However, the UK government has advised dual British nationals to travel on their British passport or with a valid certificate of entitlement to avoid boarding or entry issues once full enforcement begins on 25 February 2026.